Apparatus for, and method of, forming parenthesized image; apparatus for, and method of, forming externally framed image; program; and memory medium

ABSTRACT

Outline font data showing the original outside shape having a single closed curve made up of a parenthesized outside shape portion of the parenthesized image and a connecting line portion to connect both open ends is stored. The height and line width are determined. Based on the above data, a first-size solidly shaded image is formed having the determined height and is entirely filled inside the original outside shape thereof with effective pixels of logic “1.” A second-size solidly shaded image is formed of a second size which is smaller by the line width than the first-size solidly shaded image, along the parenthesized outside shape portion. Non-equivalence operation is performed with corresponding pixels by displacing the first-size solidly shaded image and the second-size solidly shaded image by the line width along the parenthesized outside shape portion.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to: an apparatus for forming a parenthesizedimage which is used as a part of an externally framed image (i.e., animage enclosed by an outside frame); a method of forming a parenthesizedimage; an apparatus for forming an externally framed image which is madeup of a front decorative-figure image (e.g., a fancy image of, e.g., ananimal, a human being, a toy, or the like), a rear decorative-figureimage, and upper and lower ruled lines to connect them together; amethod of forming an externally framed image; a program; and a memorymedium.

2. Description of the Related Art

As a method of preparing a stamp image, or the like, there is known thefollowing. Namely, in one method, images in the form of a pair of frontand rear parentheses (also called parenthesized images) are disposed inadvance, and these two images are connected together by ruled lines,thereby obtaining an image with an outer frame. In another method, apair of decorative-figure images (i.e., a front decorative-figure imageand a rear decorative-figure image) each having a parenthesis attachedthereto are disposed in advance, and these two images are connectedtogether by ruled lines, thereby obtaining an externally framed image.

In case this kind of externally framed image is prepared in varioussizes depending on the necessity, the longitudinal size can be adjustedby varying the length of the ruled lines. The widthwise size, on theother hand, is determined by the widthwise size (hereinafter also called“height”) of the parenthesized image, i.e., determined by the sizebetween the upper edge and the lower edge of the parenthesis. It followsthat various kinds of parenthesized images must be prepared and disposedin advance. In such a case, if the parenthesized image must be preparedin bitmap font data for each of the various kinds of heights, a vastamount of storage capacity will be required. In addition, if theparenthesized image is prepared by enlarging or reducing the size basedon the bitmap fonts, the curved portions, if any, of the parenthesiscannot be made smooth enough, resulting in a poor aesthetic impressionof the image.

In case an image is formed by outline font, a parenthesized image of arelatively free height having a good aesthetic impression can beprepared by image development. However, the ratio of enlargement inimage development applies not only to the “height” of the parenthesis,but also to the “line width.” Therefore, if the height is arbitrarilydetermined, the line width is also determined. The result will be nolonger arbitrary in that the line width cannot be arbitrarily selected.It has thus so far been difficult to arbitrarily set both the height andwidth. In some cases, depending on the ratio of enlargement, the linewidth after enlargement does not fit the predetermined width of theruled line. This brings about a problem in that the point of connectionbetween the ruled line and the enlarged line (also called the connectingpoint) does not meet smoothly (i.e., a step is formed therein).

As shown in FIGS. 9A-9C and 10A-10C, a front decorative-figure image anda rear decorative-figure image for making the above-described externallyframed image are accompanied with a design (or a pattern) for decorationpurpose. In case an externally framed image is made using the above, thelongitudinal size thereof can be adjusted by varying the length of theruled lines. The widthwise size thereof, however, is that size in theheight direction of the decorative-figure image which forms the width ofthe external frame. In concrete, the widthwise size thereof isdetermined by the size between an upper edge of an upper extension lineF60U-F80U (or R60U-R80U) and a lower edge of a lower extension line(e.g., n [dot] in FIG. 11A; hereinafter also referred to as “height”).Therefore, various heights of decorative-figure images must be preparedin advance.

In such a case, a large amount of memory capacity is required if thedecorative-figure images are prepared in bit map font for various kindsof heights. If the decorative-figure images are prepared by enlargingand/or reducing based on the bit map font, the curved portions cannot bemade smoothly, resulting in an aesthetically poor impression.

In this respect, with outline font, a decorative-figure images ofrelatively free height can be prepared in good aesthetic impression byimage development. However, the ratio of image development applies notonly to the “height” but also to the “line width.” If an arbitraryheight is selected, the line width will also be determined and will nolonger be arbitrary. It follows that the extension line cannot be madeinto an arbitrary line width. In addition, depending on the ratio ofenlargement, due to a rounding error, or the like, the line width of theupper extension line F60U, or the like, and the line width of the lowerextension line F60D, or the like, both of which form the connectingpoint to the ruled line, varies by the unit of one dot (i.e., varies byone dot depending on the rounding error). There is thus a problem inthat the width of the extension line after enlargement does not agreewith the width of a given ruled line, with the result that theconnection to the ruled line does not form a smooth line (i.e., forms astep).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This invention has an advantage of providing: an apparatus for forming aparenthesized image in which a parenthesized image of an arbitraryheight and arbitrary line width can be easily formed in an aestheticallysuperior manner (or in a good-looking manner) based on outline font; anda method of forming a parenthesized image. It has also an advantage ofproviding: an apparatus for forming an externally framed image in whichan externally frame image of an arbitrary height and an arbitrary linewidth can be formed in a good-looking manner by smoothing the connectingpoint between the extension lines and the ruled lines for the frontdecorative-figure image and the rear decorative-figure image; a methodof forming an externally framed image; a program; and a memory medium.

According to one aspect of this invention, there is provided anapparatus for forming a parenthesized image in which a parenthesizedimage constituting one of a front and rear pair of images of anarbitrary height and arbitrary line width is formed based on outlinefont. The apparatus comprises: means for storing outline font data asoriginal outside shape data, the original outside shape having a singleclosed curve made up of a parenthesized outside shape portion of theparenthesized image and a connecting line portion to connect both openends thereof; means for determining the height and line width of theparenthesized image; means for forming, based on the outside shape data,a first-size solidly shaded image which has the determined height and isentirely filled inside the original outside shape thereof with effectivepixels of logic “1”; means for forming, based on the outside shape data,a second-size solidly shaded image of a second size which is smaller bythe line width than the first-size solidly shaded image, along theparenthesized outside shape portion; and means for performingnon-equivalence operation with corresponding pixels by displacing thefirst-size solidly shaded image and the second-size solidly shaded imageby the line width along the parenthesized outside shape portion.

According to another aspect of this invention, there is provided amethod of forming a parenthesized image in which a parenthesized imageconstituting one of a front and rear pair of images of an arbitraryheight and arbitrary line width is formed based on outline font. Themethod comprises: storing data, as original outside shape data, ofoutline font data having a single closed curve made up of aparenthesized outside shape portion of the parenthesized image and aconnecting line portion to connect both open ends thereof; determiningthe height and line width of the parenthesized image; forming, based onthe outside shape data, a first-size solidly shaded image which has thedetermined height and is entirely filled inside the original outsideshape thereof with effective pixels of logic “1”; forming, based on theoutside shape data, a second-size solidly shaded image of a second sizewhich is smaller by the line width than the first-size solidly shadedimage, along the parenthesized outside shape portion; and performingnon-equivalence operation with corresponding pixels by displacing thefirst-size solidly shaded image and the second-size solidly shaded imageby the line width along the parenthesized outside shape portion.

According to this apparatus and method, one of a parenthesized imagewhich constitutes the front and rear pair of parenthesized images isformed based on the outline font in an arbitrary height and an arbitraryline width. In concrete, outline font data showing the original outsideshape having a single closed curve made up of a parenthesized outsideshape portion of the parenthesized image and a connecting line portionto connect both open ends is stored as the original outside shape data.As the original outside in this case, there need be only the outline ofthe outside shape (at least only the parenthesized outside shape). Asdescribed hereinafter, however, since there is formed an image theinside of which is wholly filled with effective pixels of logic “1,”preferably, an indication shall be made to that effect (i.e., to theeffect that the inside is filled with effective pixels).

Then, a first-size solidly shaded image having the determined height andthe outside shape thereof is wholly filled with effective pixels isformed by image development based on the original outside shape data. Inthis case, since the original outside shape data is outline font data,the curved portion, or the like, can also be smoothly formed in agood-looking manner (in an aesthetically superior manner) even if theheight (i.e., the size in the open width direction of the parenthesis)is freely determined. On the other hand, in case only the outline of theoutside shape is drawn, the line width of the ruled line is alsodetermined by the ratio of enlargement when the above-described heightis determined. However, since the inside thereof is wholly filled witheffective pixels, the line width of the outline does not matter at all.Further, in a similar manner, there is formed, along the parenthesizedoutside shape portion, a second-size solidly shaded image of a secondsize which is smaller by the line width than the first-size solidlyfilled image. In this case, too, since it is based on outline font, thecurved portion is also formed in a good-looking manner. In addition,since the inside is wholly filled in, there occurs no problem in theline width of the outline.

Now, when non-equivalence operation with corresponding pixels isperformed by displacing the first-size solidly shaded image and thesecond-size solidly shaded image by the line width along theparenthesized outside shape portion, there remains only the sizedifferential of both the images, i.e., only the amount equivalent to theline width remains along the parenthesized outside shape. In otherwords, there remains only the parenthesized outside shape of thedesignated height and the designated line width, thereby obtaining adesired parenthesized image. According to the above-describedarrangement, by designating the height and line width, there can beobtained a parenthesized image of an arbitrary height and line widthbased on outline font in a good-looking manner even if the parenthesizedimage partially includes curved portions such as arcs.

In the above-described apparatus, preferably, the outside shape originaldata has information that the original outside shape is entirely filledinside thereof with the effective pixels.

According to this arrangement, the outside shape original data showsthat not only the original outside shape (outline) but also the insideof the outside shape are entirely filled with effective pixels.Therefore, when the first-size solidly shaded image and the second-sizesolidly shaded image are formed, the image whose inside is completelyfilled or solidly shaded can be easily formed only by image developmentbased on the outline shape data without newly preparing (or adding byinsertion) the processing of filling the inside depending on thescanning of the outside shape (outline).

According to another aspect of this invention, there is provided anapparatus for forming an externally framed image in which an externallyframed image is formed by connecting, with an upper ruled line and alower ruled line, an upper extension line and a lower extension line ofa front decorative-figure image constituting a front end portion of anexternal frame to an upper extension line and a lower extension line ofa rear decorative-figure image constituting a rear end portion of theexternal frame, respectively. The apparatus comprises: first means forsteplessly adjusting an outside contour and inside contour betweenadjustment (or adjusting) extension line and adjustment (or adjusting)ruled line which constitute an adjustment connecting point which is madeup of at least one of a connecting point between the upper extensionline of the front decorative-figure image and the upper ruled line, aconnecting point between the lower extension line of the frontdecorative-figure image and the lower ruled line, a connecting pointbetween the upper extension line of the rear decorative-figure image andthe upper ruled line, and a connecting point between the lower extensionline of the rear decorative-figure image and the lower ruled line,wherein said first means comprises: second means for setting imageadjustment region inclusive of the adjustment connecting point, an endportion of the adjustment extension line, and an end portion of theadjustment ruled line relative to the externally framed image beforeadjustment; third means for defining crossing points by obtaining anupper crossing point and a lower crossing point between that end of theimage adjustment region which lies on the side of the adjustmentextension line and an outside contour and inner contour of theadjustment extension line, respectively, and also for obtaining an uppercrossing point and a lower crossing point between that end of the imageadjustment region which lies on the side of the adjustment ruled lineand an outside contour and an inner contour of the adjustment ruledline, respectively; and fourth means for disposing, in place of theimage of the externally framed image before adjustment inside the imageadjustment region, a connection image having an upper contour steplesslyconnecting the extension-line-side upper crossing point and theruled-line-side upper crossing point, and also having a lower contoursteplessly connecting the extension-line-side lower crossing point andthe ruled-line-side lower crossing point.

According to yet another aspect of this invention, there is provided amethod of an externally framed image in which an externally framed imageis formed by connecting, with an upper ruled line and a lower ruledline, an upper extension line and a lower extension line of a frontdecorative-figure image constituting a front end portion of an externalframe to an upper extension line and a lower extension line of a reardecorative-figure image constituting a rear end portion of the externalframe, respectively. The method comprises: steplessly adjusting anoutside contour and inside contour between adjustment connection lineand adjustment ruled line which constitute an adjustment connectingpoint which is made up of at least one of a connecting point between theupper extension line of the front decorative-figure image and the upperruled line, a connecting point between the lower extension line of thefront decorative-figure image and the lower ruled line, a connectingpoint between the upper extension line of the rear decorative-figureimage and the upper ruled line, and a connecting point between the lowerextension line of the rear decorative-figure image and the lower ruledline.

According to this apparatus for, and method of, forming an externallyframed image, an externally framed image is formed by connecting anupper extension line and a lower extension line of a frontdecorative-figure image constituting a front end portion of an externalframe to an upper extension line and a lower extension line of a reardecorative-figure image constituting a rear end portion of the externalframe, respectively. At this time, stepless adjustment to do away withthe steps is made between the adjustment connection line and theadjustment ruled line, with at least one of the connecting pointsbetween the extension lines and the ruled lines of the decorative-figureimage serving as a connecting point for adjustment. As a result, theoutline of the connecting point can be made smooth. In other words, whenthe front and rear decorative-figure images are disposed, they aredisposed at an arbitrary height regardless of the line width. When theruled line is disposed, it is disposed by making only the outside edge(outside of the external frame) flush with each other by slightlydisregarding the smoothness at the connecting point. The externallyparenthesized image before adjustment is thus once formed in thismanner. Then, the smoothness of the connecting point can be adjusted.Accordingly, the externally framed image of an arbitrary height andarbitrary line width can be formed in a good-looking manner. Inaddition, according to the apparatus, setting is made of an imageadjustment region inclusive of the adjustment connecting point, an endportion of the adjustment extension line, and an end portion of theadjustment ruled line relative to the externally framed image beforeadjustment. There are obtained an upper crossing point and a lowercrossing point between that end of the image adjustment region whichlies on the side of the adjustment extension line and an outside contourand inner contour of the adjustment extension line, respectively, andalso an upper crossing point and a lower crossing point between that endof the image adjustment region which lies on the side of the adjustmentruled line and an outside contour and an inner contour of the adjustmentruled line, respectively. And, in place of the image of the externallyframed image before adjustment inside the image adjustment region, thereis disposed a connection image having an upper contour steplesslyconnecting the extension-line-side upper crossing point and theruled-line-side upper crossing point, and also having a lower contoursteplessly connecting the extension-line-side lower crossing point andthe ruled-line-side lower crossing point. Therefore, the contour of theconnecting point for adjustment can be adjusted. As a result, byconnecting this line by a straight line or a smooth curved line in astepless manner, the contour between the adjustment connection line andthe adjustment ruled line which constitute the connecting point foradjustment can be formed in a stepless manner.

According to another aspect of this invention, there is provided aprogram capable of functioning each means of the above-describedapparatus for forming parenthesized image or the above-describedapparatus for forming externally framed image, or capable of performingthe method of forming parenthesized image or the method forming anexternally framed image.

As a result of being processed by a programmable apparatus, this programcan form a parenthesized image of an arbitrary height and an arbitraryline width in a good-looking manner based on outline font. Or else, anexternally framed image of an arbitrary height and an arbitrary linewidth can be formed in a good-looking manner while smoothing theconnecting point between the extension line and the ruled line of thefront and rear decorative-figure images.

According to still another aspect of this invention, there is provided amemory medium for storing the above-described program in manner to bereadable by a programmable apparatus.

By reading out the program stored in the memory medium in a programmableapparatus, a parenthesized image of an arbitrary height and arbitraryline width can be formed based on outline font in a good-looking manner.In addition, by smoothing the connecting point between the extensionlines of the front and rear decorative-figure images, an externallyframed image of an arbitrary height and an arbitrary line width can beformed in a good-looking manner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other objects and the attendant features of this inventionwill become readily apparent by reference to the following detaileddescription when considered in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is an outside perspective view of a tape printing apparatusaccording to this invention in a state in which a lid thereof is leftopen;

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram showing the control system of thetape printing apparatus in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 3A-3B are explanation views showing one example of display screenat the time of printing, typical operations on the display screen, andresult of printing;

FIGS. 4A-4C are explanation views showing one example of parenthesizedimage, printed image, and label, respectively;

FIGS. 5A-5D are explanation views showing one example of method offorming a parenthesized image;

FIGS. 6A-6C are explanation views, similar to those of FIGS. 5A-5D,showing another example;

FIGS. 7A-7D are explanation views, similar to those of FIGS. 5A-5D,showing still another example;

FIGS. 8A-8C are explanation views showing various examples ofparenthesized images that can be similarly formed;

FIGS. 9A-9C are explanation views showing various examples of printedimages including externally framed images for decoration purpose;

FIGS. 10A-10C are explanation views showing front and rear images to beused in FIGS. 9A-9C;

FIGS. 11A-11C are explanation views showing a contour adjustment imageand one example of contour adjustment thereby;

FIGS. 12A-12C are explanation views, similar to those in FIGS. 11A-11C,showing another example;

FIGS. 13A-13B are explanation views showing another example of outlineadjustment images;

FIGS. 14A-14D are explanation views, similar to those in FIGS. 11A-11C,showing still another example;

FIGS. 15A-15D are explanation views, similar to those in FIGS. 11A-11C,showing still another example;

FIGS. 16A-16D are explanation views, similar to those in FIGS. 11A-11C,showing still another example;

FIGS. 17A-17D are explanation views, similar to those in FIGS. 11A-11C,showing still another example; and

FIGS. 18A-18B are explanation views showing various examples of outlineadjustment images and their original data.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Detailed description will now be made about a tape printing apparatusaccording to one embodiment (first embodiment) of this invention withreference to the accompanying drawings.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the tape printing apparatus 1 has an outershell which is made up of an apparatus casing (apparatus man body) 2. Ina front upper face of the apparatus casing 2, there is provided akeyboard 3 which is made up of various input keys. On a rear upper facethereof, there are disposed an open-close lid 21 on the left side and adisplay 4 on the right side thereof. On the left side of the apparatuscasing 2 there is formed a slit-like tape discharge outlet 22 which isin communication with a pocket (tape mounting portion) 6 and an outsideof the apparatus. A tape cutter 132 for cutting a fed-out printing tape(hereinafter simply referred to as a tape) is provided in a manner toface the tape discharge outlet 22.

As a basic construction from the viewpoint of control system, there areprovided: an operating unit 11 having the keyboard 3 and the display 4and performing interface with a user; a printing unit 12 having aprinting head (thermal head) 7 and a tape feeding unit 120 and forperforming printing on the tape T in a tape cartridge C mounted (orloaded) into the pocket 6; a cutting unit 13 for cutting the printedtape T; a detection unit 14 having various sensors and for performingvarious detections; a driving unit 15 having various drivers and fordriving various circuits; and control unit 20 for controlling variousparts inside the tape printing apparatus 1. Therefore, the apparatuscasing 2 contains therein circuit board (not illustrated) aside from theprinting unit 12, the cutting unit 13 and the detection unit 14. Thiscircuit board has mounted thereon, aside from an electric power unit,circuits for the driving unit 15 and the control unit 20, and isconnected from an AC adaptor connector to a battery (not illustrated)such as a Nicad battery which is detachably mounted thereon.

After having mounted a tape cartridge C into the pocket 6, the useroperates the tape printing apparatus 1 to input through the keyboard 3printing information such as desired letters or the like (letters,numerals, symbols, simplified decorative-figures, or the like). When acommand is given to perform printing, the tape T is fed out of the tapecartridge C by the tape feeding unit 120 to thereby perform desiredprinting on the tape T by means of the printing head 7. The printedportion of the tape T is discharged, as required, out of the tapeprinting apparatus 1 through the tape discharge outlet 22. When thedesired printing has been finished, the tape feeding unit 120 feeds thetape T to a longitudinal position of the tape inclusive of an extramargin (or space) and then stops the feeding operation.

Inside the open-close lid 21 of the printing unit 12, there is providedthe pocket 6 for mounting therein the tape cartridge C, which isdetachably mounted therein or therefrom with the open-close lid 21 leftopen. On a rear side of the tape cartridge C, there are provided aplurality of small holes (not illustrated) for recognizing ordistinguishing the kind of the tape T whose tape width, or the like, isdifferent from one another. A tape recognizing sensor 141 such as amicro-switch is disposed in the pocket 6 to detect the presence orabsence of the holes. It is thus possible to detect the presence orabsence (accurately, whether the tape cartridge C is mounted or not) andthe kind of the tape T (accurately, the kind of the tape cartridge C).

The tape cartridge C contains therein the tape T and an ink ribbon R ofa given width (about 4.5 mm-48 mm), and has formed therein a throughopening 55 so as to face the printing head 7. The tape T has aconstruction in which an adhesive layer is formed on the rear surfacethereof and in which the adhesive layer is covered by a piece of releasepaper (peel-off paper). In a portion in which the tape T and the ribbonR are overlapped with each other, there is contained a platen roller(platen) 56 in a manner to correspond to the printing head 7 which ishoused in the head unit 61. In a state in which the tape cartridge C ismounted, the printing head 7 comes into contact with the rear surface ofthe ink ribbon R which is exposed out of the through opening 55 so that,due to heat-generating drive, the desired letters, or the like, areprinted on the front surface of the tape T.

The tape feeding unit 120 is disposed in a space extending from the sidearea to the downward area of the pocket 6 and has a feeding motor 121 asthe power (driving) source. When the tape cartridge C is mounted intothe pocket 6 and the open-close lid 21 is closed in that state, the tapeT is fed out of the tape reel 52 by the feeding motor 121 serving as thedriving source, and the ink ribbon R is fed out of the ribbon feedingreel 53. The printing head 7 sandwiches the tape T and the ink ribbon Rat a position of the through opening 55 and comes into contact with theplaten 56. The tape T and the ink ribbon R travel in a state ofoverlapping with each other, and the printing head 7 is driven in asynchronized manner. Thereafter, the ink ribbon R is taken up into thetake-up reel 54 and only the tape T is discharged out of the tapecartridge C through the slit 59. The platen 56 keeps on rotating (theribbon take-up reel 54 also keeps on rotating) for a predeterminedperiod of time. As a result, the feeding of the tape T is continued andthe tape T is fed outside the apparatus through the tape dischargeoutlet 22 until the predetermined cutting position of the tape T is fedto the tape cutter 132.

The cutting unit 13 is made up of the tape cutter 132 and a cutter motor131 for operating the tape cutter 132. The mode of operation can beswitched between automatic operation and manual operation by modesetting. The cutter motor 131 is operated in the manual mode in case thetape T is printed in an arbitrary length and in the automatic mode incase the tape T is printed in a predetermined set length. The detectionunit 14 has the above-described tape recognition sensor 141 and alsovarious kinds of sensors inside the apparatus. The driving unit 15 ismade up of a display driver 151 and a motor driver 153. The displaydriver 151 drives the display 4 of the operating unit 11 depending onthe command based on a control signal to be outputted by the controlunit 20. Similarly, the head driver 152 drives the printing head 7 ofthe printing unit 12. The motor driver 153 drives each of the motorssuch as the feeding motor 121 of the printing unit 12, the cutter motor131 of the cutting unit 13, or the like.

The operating unit 11 has the keyboard 3 and the display 4. The display4 is made up of: a display screen 41 which is capable of displaying thedisplay image data of 96 dots×128 dots within a rectangle of about 6 cmin the lateral direction (X direction)×12 cm in the longitudinaldirection (Y direction); and 18 indicators for displaying each of thesetting conditions, or the like. The display 4 is used when the userinputs data through the keyboard 3 to thereby prepare and edit printingimage data such as character string image data, or the like, or when theresult of inputting is recognized, or when various commands/selectioncommands are inputted.

The keyboard 3 has disposed therein letter key group 31 inclusive ofalphabetical key group, numeral key group, Japanese “kana” group such as“hirakana” and “katakana,” and user-defined character key group forcalling up and selecting user-defined characters; and function key group32 for designating various operation modes, or the like.

The function key group 32 includes power switch key; printing key forcommanding printing operation; selection key for selection commands ofvarious modes in data entry at the time of text inputting, carriagereturn, or the like; cancellation key for deleting various operations;deleting key for stopping various processing or deleting characters orthe like after entry; form key for setting printing style and othervarious styles; cutting key for the above-described manual cutting; and4 cursor keys for moving the cursor or the display area on the displayscreen 41 to up, down, right and left directions. Separate keys may beprovided for each of the key inputting or fewer keys may be used forinputting in combination with shift key, or the like. The keyboard 3inputs various commands and data into the control unit 20 through thesevarious keys.

The control unit 20 is provided with a CPU 210, a ROM 220, a RAM 230 anda peripheral control circuit 240 (P-CON), which are connected togetherby means of an internal bus 250. The ROM 220 has: a control program area221 for storing therein the control programs to be processed in the CPU210; and a control data area 222 for storing therein font data, colorconversion table, letter decoration table, or the like, for the letters,or the like (numerals, symbols, graphics, or the like) which areprepared inside the apparatus. The RAM 230 is backed up for powerfailure and has: various flag register group 231; text data area 232;display image data area 233; printing image data area 234;graphics-drawing registration data area 235; user-defined characterregistration image area 236; various buffer area 237 such as letterdevelopment buffer, printing buffer, or the like. The RAM is used asworking for various processing.

The P-CON 240 has assembled therein: logic circuit for supplementing thefunction of the CPU 210 and for handling the interface signals withperipheral circuits; and function circuit such as a timer for performingvarious time counting, or the like, the circuits being constituted bygate array, custom LSI, or the like. The P-CON 240 is thereforeconnected to the various sensors and the keyboard 3 and the variousdetection signals, various commands, and input data are captured intothe internal bus 250 as they are or with due modification. Ininterlocking with the CPU 210, the P-CON 240 outputs the data and thecontrol signals outputted from the CPU 210, or the like, into theinternal bus 250 to the driving unit 15 as they are or with duemodification.

According to the above-described constitution, the CPU 210 performs: theinputting of the various detection signals, various commands, variousdata, or the like, according to the control program inside the ROM 220;the processing of the various data, or the like, inside the ROM 220 andthe RAM 230; and outputting of the control signals to the driving unit15 through the P-CON 240. In this manner, the CPU 210 performs anoverall control over the tape printing apparatus 1 by performing thedisplay control of the display screen 41 and by controlling the printinghead 7 to thereby print on the tape T under the predetermined printingconditions.

The tape printing apparatus 1 performs most of the processing ininterrupt processing. Therefore, when the printing image formation hasbeen prepared, the user may depress the printing key at an arbitrarytiming. Then, an interrupt processing occurs and the printing processingis started up, whereby the printing of the printing image can be madebased on the printing image data. In other words, the operatingprocedure to the printing can be arbitrarily selected by the user.

As shown in FIG. 3A, when the printing key is depressed in a state oftext editing screen display after inputting the first line letters(character array) “ABCDE” up to the cursor K (screen D10: hereinafter,the state of display screen 41 is referred to only as “Dxx” like “D10,”“D11,” “D12”), a message of “Printing” is displayed (D11), and thecharacter array “ABCDE” is printed as a printing image G00. Depending onthe setting, the tape is cut to thereby form or obtain a label L00 of atape width (label width) of TW and a printing length (label length atthe time of forming the label=label width in the longitudinal directionof the tape) of LW (see FIG. 3B. When the printing is finished, theprocedure return to the original text editing screen (D12: same as D10).In the tape printing apparatus 1 the user can delete the variousinstructions through key inputting by means of a delete key. Forexample, by depressing the delete key in the above-described state(D11), the screen can be returned to the state in which the originaltext editing screen is displayed (D10).

When a form key among the function keys is depressed by the user in theabove-described state (D10), a selection screen for selecting variousforms is displayed. If “with external frame” is selected out ofalternatives (or options) in that state by operating the selection key,various candidates for “external frame” are displayed as options. Fromthat state the user can select “external frame.” When the printing keyis depressed in a state in which, after having made the above-describedselection, the screen has returned to the text editing screen (D10 inFIG. 3A), the message of “printing” is displayed (D11). Also, printingis made of the externally framed character array of “ABCDE” as in FIG.4C as the printing image G10, thereby forming the label L10. Once theprinting has been finished, the screen returns to the original textediting screen (D12: same as D10).

In this case, as an internal processing, as shown in FIG. 4A, a frontparenthesized image ([) F10 and a rear parenthesized image (]) R10 eachhaving a designated type of external frame are disposed and connectedtogether by ruled lines. In this manner, the designated (selected)external frame is formed, followed by printing processing.

In such a processing, if the parenthesized image F10, or the like, isprepared by bit map font for each of the sizes (size: height, width, orthe like), a vast amount of memory capacity is required. As a solution,there is often used outline font which can be easily enlarged or reducedto relatively free sizes. However, even if the outline font is used,separate setting for respective sizes cannot be made. In thisspecification, “image F10, or the like,” for example, is intended tomean not only F10, but also R10. Hereinafter, such an alternativeexpression “or the like” is not always repeated each time in order toprevent the sentences from getting complicated; instead, whereapplicable, it is to be understood that such an alternative (R10 in thisparticular example) is implied even if it is not specifically listed up.

It will be easily made to set the height of the parenthesized image F10which forms the width of the external frame to n [dot] as shown in FIG.5D. Even in such a case, in order to make the line width to m [dot],there will be required outline font data showing the ratio ofheight:line width=n:m (or line width/height=m/n). If they have to beprepared for various kinds, there can be attained little or no saving inmemory capacity despite the use of outline font.

In the tape printing apparatus 1 of this invention, a parenthesizedimage can be made, in such a case, easily and in a good-looking mannerbased on outline font.

A description will now be made in detail about an example. Suppose thata parenthesized image F10 (or R10: F10 is used as an example here) whichconstitutes one of the front and rear pair of the above-described frontparenthesized image F10 and the rear parenthesized image R10 is formedor made based on outline font by designated height of n [dot] anddesignated line width of m [dot]. First, as shown in FIG. 5B, there isprepared by image development an image M10 which has a height (the sizeof the parenthesis as measured in the opening width thereof) of n [dot]and in which the entire circumference is painted black or solidly shadedin black (effective pixels of logic “1”). This image M10 is referred toas a first-size solidly shaded image.

As the data (original outline data) for the basic (or starting) outlinefont, there are prepared, as shown in FIG. 5A, at least the following,namely, data B10-3 which shows only the outline of the outside shape ofthe parenthesis (outside shape of the parenthesis is hereinafter alsoreferred to as “parenthesized outside shape”), and data B10-2 whichshows a single closed line consisting of the parenthesized outside shapeand a line connecting both open ends thereof and, still furthermore,original outline data B10 which is wholly painted black (effectivepixels) within the outside shape. They are stored, e.g., in the controldata area 222 of the ROM 220. Based on the above, the image developmentof height n [dot] is made.

It is to be noted here that the original outside shape data B10 isoutline font data and, therefore, even if the height n [dot] is freelyset, the curved portions can be formed smoothly in a good-lookingmanner. In case only the outline of the outside shape is drawn, on theother hand (for example, in case the parenthesized image F10 in FIG. 5Dis formed by image development based on the outline font), the linewidth m [dot] is determined based on the ratio of enlargement at thetime of determining the height n [dot] and, therefore, cannot bearbitrarily designated. However, in the image M10 in FIG. 5B, the insideis wholly painted black and the line width thus does not matter.

Then, as shown in FIG. 5C, in a similar manner, there is formed an imagein a second size (second-size solidly shaded image) S10 which is smalleralong the parenthesized outside shape than the image M10 by thedesignated line width m [dot]. Namely the height of the image S10 isequal to (n−2m) [dot]. In this case, too, since the image S10 is basedon the original outside shape data B10 (outline font), the curvedportions can also be formed in a good-looking manner. Further, since theinside is solidly shaded, the line width of the outline offers noproblem.

Thereafter, the image M10 and image S10 are displaced by the line widthm [dot] along the parenthesized outside shape and performnon-equivalence operation between the corresponding pixels. Then, asshown in FIG. 5D, there will remain only the portion which correspondsto the difference in size between both the images (i.e., dotted portionas shown in FIG. 5C). In other words, only the amount equivalent to thedesignated line width m [dot] remains along the parenthesized outsideshape. It follows that only the parenthesized outside shape portionhaving the designated height of n [dot] and the designated width of m[dot] remains, thereby forming the desired parenthesized image F10.

According to the above-described method, there can be obtained theparenthesized image F10 having a desired height of n [dot] and a desiredline width of m [dot] by designating the height n [dot] and the linewidth m [dot] easily and in a good-looking manner even in case curvedportions such as arcs are partly included.

Further, in the above-described case, the original outside shape dataB10 is the data which is to be solidly shaded (or wholly painted) notonly in the original outside shape (outline) but also inside the outsideshape (effective pixels). Therefore, when the image (first-size solidlyshaded image) M10 or the image (second-size solidly shaded image) S10 isformed, it is not necessary to prepare in advance (or to add byinsertion) the processing in which the inside of the outside shape(outline) is scanned and, depending on the result, the inside is solidlyshaded. An image which is solidly shaded inside can be easily preparedonly by performing image development based on the outside shape dataB10.

In the above-described example, the user selects the “external frame”and thereafter the procedure returns to the text editing screen.Alternatively, the width of the external frame (or that “height” of theparenthesized image F10 which corresponds thereto) or the line width maybe directly inputted in numerical values. In this case, a message tourge the inputting of numeric value or the cursor K showing theinputting position may be displayed on the display screen. Further, asthe unit for inputting the numeric values, aside from an ordinary lengthunit (e.g., inches, centimeters), a dot may also be employed as the unitof inputting, or both may be arranged to be selectable. In addition,depending on the character size of the inputted character array or onthe tape width TW of the mounted tape T, the width of the external frame(or the height of the parenthesized image) may be automaticallydetermined (by reference to a table), thereby using it as theabove-described designated value.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 6A, inside the above-describedparenthesized image F10 described with reference to FIG. 5C, there maybe formed by image development an image M20 which is smaller than theinside (i.e., the size of the image F10) of the image F10 by a linewidth of m [dot] along the parenthesized outside shape in a height of(n−4m) [dot] (see FIG. 6A). Similarly, an image S20 is formed along theparenthesized outside shape in a size which is smaller than the imageM20 by the line width m [dot] and which has a height of (n−6m) [dot].Then, the image M20 and image S20 are similarly displaced and performnon-equivalence operation between the corresponding pixels. By thusforming a parenthesized image F20 inside, there can be obtained adouble-lined parenthesized image F30 for the external frame as a whole.By repeating the similar operations, multiple-lined image having morethan three lines can be easily made based on one kind of originaloutside shape data. Since the outline font is used, the curved portionscan be formed smoothly and in a good-looking manner.

Aside from the above-described parenthesized images of [-shape as shownin FIGS. 5A-5C and 6A-6C, other types of parenthesized images such asF50 of {-shape as shown in FIGS. 7A-7D may also be formed. The image M50(first-size solidly shaded outside shape) or the image S50 (second-sizesolidly shaded outside shape) are formed by image development based onthe original outside shape data B50 of outline font. They are thensubjected to a non-equivalence operation to thereby obtain the image F50with smooth curves and in a good-looking manner.

In addition, regarding various kinds of parenthesized images F51-F53 asshown in FIGS. 8A-8C, they can be similarly formed. In concrete, thefirst-size and second-size solidly shaded images are formed by imagedevelopment based on the original outside shape data of outline font andare then subjected to a non-equivalence operation. An image can thus beobtained with smooth curves and in a good-looking manner.

In the above-described first embodiment, examples were described inwhich a pair of front and rear parenthesized images of external framesare connected by ruled lines to thereby form externally framed images.Therefore, the front parenthesized image and the rear parenthesizedimage are both relatively simple parenthesized images. Aside from theabove-described examples, the externally framed images include those fordecoration purposes with more complicated decorative images of, e.g.,good-looking fancy pictures (or figures).

As shown in FIGS. 9A-9C and 10A-10C, this kind of externally framedimages are formed similarly in the following manner. Any one ofdesignated type of front decorative-figure images F60-F80 andcorresponding one of rear decorative-figure images R60-R80 are disposedrespectively and are connected together by ruled lines. As a result,externally framed image G60-G80 is formed as a whole, which issubsequently subjected to printing processing.

In this case, each of the decorative-figure images F60-F80, R60-R80(hereinafter typically referred to as “F70”) is made up of: upperwithdrawing (or extension) lines F60U-F80U, R60U-R80U (hereinaftertypically referred to as “F70U”) which are to be connected to the upperruled lines; and lower extension lines F60D-F80D, R60D-R80D (hereinaftertypically referred to as “R70D”) which are to be connected to lowerruled lines, aside from the decorative-figure image F60M-F80M, R60M-R80M(hereinafter typically referred to as “F70M”).

Therefore, the size n [dot] of each of the decorative-figure images F70is determined by the distance (size) between the upper edge of the upperextension line F70U and the lower edge of the lower extension line F70D(e.g., n [dot] in FIG. 11A-11B; hereinafter referred to as “height”).

Similarly as in the case of the parenthesized images, the externallyframed images may also be formed in the following manner. Namely, thewidth of the “external frame” (or the height of the correspondingdecorative-figure image F70) or its line width is directly designated ina numerical value so that the externally framed image can be formedeasily and in a good-looking manner. Alternatively, an arrangement mayalso be made so that inputting can be made not only by an ordinarylength unit but also by the unit of dots. Or else, they may be made tobe arbitrarily selectable. Alternatively, based on the character (orletter) size of the character string image, or the tape width TW of themounted tape, the height and the line width may be automaticallydetermined by reference to a table, thereby using it as the designatedvalue.

In case the externally framed image is formed of each of theabove-described decorative-figure images for decorative purposes(hereinafter also referred to as “decorative image”), it is preferableto use outline font which is capable of enlarging and reducing to arelatively free size and which can be enlarged and reduced smoothly. Itis, however, still difficult, as in the case of the variousparenthesized images in the above-described first embodiment, to makethe decorative-figure image to an arbitrary height and make theextension line to an arbitrary line width.

In addition, due to rounding error, or the like, in terms of calculationdepending on the ratio of enlargement, the line width of the upperextension line F70U which serves as the connecting point to the ruledline and the line width of the lower extension line F70D will vary bythe unit of dots (differs by one dot depending on the rounding error),resulting in an unbalanced shape. Further, the line width of theextension line after enlarging does not coincide with the line width ofthe predetermined ruled line. The above will result in a problem in thatthe connecting point becomes stepped and that the outline is not smooth.

As a solution, in the tape printing apparatus 1, an arrangement is madesuch that the connecting point between the extension lines of the frontand rear decorative-figure images becomes smooth and that an externallyframed image of an arbitrary height and arbitrary line width can beformed in a good-looking manner. A description thereabout will now bemade as a second embodiment.

In the tape printing apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the externallyframed image is formed by connecting the upper extension line and thelower extension line of the front decorative-figure image and the upperextension line and the lower extension line of the reardecorative-figure image by means of an upper ruled line and a lowerruled line. In order to secure smoothness at the connecting point, theoutline of the externally framed image near the connecting point isadjusted.

For example, as shown in FIG. 11A, in case the front ends (connectingpoints) of the upper extension line F70U and the lower extension lineF70D of the front decorative-figure image F70 having a designated heightof n [dot] in an externally framed image before adjustment is smaller inline width than the upper ruled line LU70 or the lower ruled line LD70having a designated line width of m [dot], the image including theconnecting point to be adjusted, within the externally framed imagebefore adjustment, is made to be the image adjustment region.

In the illustrated example, the image adjustment region is defined to bethe one enclosed or covered by the point at which the upper extensionline F70U or the lower extension line F70D becomes a line width, in theheight direction, of m [dot] and a minute length dt to the front end,i.e., dt [dot] wide×m [dot] high. Here, an outline adjustment image (alogic sum image) E70T as shown in FIG. 11B is prepared (i.e., is formedby image development based on outline font and is stored). This image isdisposed in the connection and the logic sum operation is performed,thereby smoothing the outline (see FIG. 11C).

In other words, in the above-described example in FIGS. 11A-11C, thelogic sum image E70T is used as the outline adjustment image.

In the above-described example, the point at which the height is equalto the line width m [dot] coincides with both the upper extension lineF70U and the lower extension line F70D. In an example in which the pointin question does not coincide, there may be provided separate imageadjustment regions (one for the upper part or upper side and the otherfor the lower part or lower side). Further, in case the line width inthe height direction of one of the extension lines does not attain m[dot], or in case a rectangular logic sum image E70T disposed in thepoint in question gives rise to a disagreement (or is not natural),there may be used a logic sum image E70T-2, E70T-3 of an inclined (atrapezoidal) shape, or a curved one may be used instead of the inclinedone.

The logic sum image E70T, or the like, has a ruled-line-part side (i.e.,a “side” which lies on the part of the ruled line) which coincides withthe ruled-line width m [dot] and an extension-line-part side whichcoincides with the extension-line width mt. This image is a so-calledfilled-in image in which both these ends are connected together, therebyforming a single closed loop which serves as an outline, and the insideenclosed by the outline is solidly shaded (or solidly filled) with black(effective pixels of logic “1”). As described above, the processing inwhich the ruled-line-part side is made to coincide with the ruled-linewidth and the extension-line-part side is made to coincide with theextension-line width, and in which the externally parenthesized image issubjected to logic sum operation result in that the logic sum image isoverlapped with (or added to) the externally parenthesized image. Itfollows that the ruled line and the extension line are smoothlyconnected together in a good-looking manner to cover the connectingpoint which is an object of adjustment.

Next, a description will be made with reference to FIG. 12A. In anexternally framed image before adjustment, if the front end of the upperextension line F70U or the lower extension line F70D of the frontdecorative-figure image having a designated height of n [dot] is larger(i.e., having a larger line width) than the designated line width m[dot], an image adjustment region is similarly set. In this case, theimage adjustment region is defined as the one which is covered by widthof [dot]×height n [dot], where df is a minute length between the frontend of the upper extension line F70U or the lower extension line F70Dand a position in which the outline (curved line) does not becomeunnatural even if the extension line is scraped (or cut off).

There is now prepared, by image development based on outline font dataand stored, an outline adjustment image (logical product image) E70Fwhich is a so-called blank image formed by painting the inside thereof,inclusive of the outline, with white (invalid pixels of logic “0”) overthe entire size of df [dot] wide×(n−2m) [dot] long. It is then disposedin the connecting point and is subjected to logical product operation,thereby smoothly adjusting the outline (see FIG. 12C).

In other words, in the example shown in FIGS. 12A-12C, logical productimage E70F is used as the outline adjustment image. Like in theabove-described examples, the image adjustment region may be providedseparately in the upper side and in the lower side, respectively, asexplained with reference to FIGS. 11A-11C. In case the outline of any ofthe extension lines is unnatural, there may be provided an inclinationon the upper side or the lower side or is made into curves.

The logical product image E70F in these cases is suitable to the case inwhich only the outer-edge side (outside of the outline) is made tocoincide (or is made flush) with each other. In other words, that upperedge of the upper extension line F70U which serves as the outer edge ofthe externally framed image and the upper edge of the upper ruled lineLU70 are connected together to make them coincide with each other. Also,that lower edge of the lower extension line F70D which serves as theouter edge of the externally framed image and the lower edge of thelower ruled line LD70 are connected together to make them coincide witheach other. Then, since the outer edges become smooth as shown, it isonly the inner edges the connecting points of which become conspicuous.As an outline adjustment image suitable for the above, there is providedthe logical product image E70F.

The logical product image E70F in this case is made up of: aruled-line-part side which coincides with the distance, i.e., (n−2m)[dot], between those inner edges of the upper ruled line LU70 and of thelower ruled line LD70 which form the inside of the external frame; andan extension-line-part side which coincides with the distance betweenthe inner edges of the upper extension line F70U and of the lowerextension line F70D. It is a blank image whose inside inclusive of theoutline is filled with white (invalid pixels) all over, where theoutline is defined to be a single closed loop which is formed byconnecting together the ruled-line-part side and the extension-line-partside.

In other words, the ruled-line-part side is made to coincide with theinner edge of the ruled line, and the extension-line-part side is madeto coincide with the inner edge of the extension line. When theexternally framed image is then subjected to a logic product operation,that portion of the externally framed image which overlaps with thelogic product image will be deleted. As a result, if there is prepared alogic product image having a smooth outline as the logic product imageE70F, it is possible to scrape or cut off the outline of the externallyframed image along the outline to thereby smoothly connect the outlinesof the ruled line and the extension line. The externally framed imagecan thus be adjusted in a good-looking manner.

In the above examples shown in FIGS. 11A-11C and 12A-12C, the imageadjusting region is assumed to be on the extension-line side of thedecorative-figure image F70. The following arrangement may also be made.Namely, as shown in FIG. 13A relative to FIG. 11A, and as shown in FIG.13B relative to FIG. 12A, the image adjustment region is assumed on theruled-line side. Then, in the example shown in FIG. 11A, a logic productoperation is performed on the ruled line (upper ruled line LU70 in theillustrated example) with the logic product image E70F-2 having aninclination as shown in FIG. 13A. The step on the inner-edge side isscraped or cut off to thereby obtain a smooth outline. In the exampleshown in FIG. 12A, a logic product operation is performed by overlappingthe logic product image E70T-3 having an inclination as shown in FIG.13B with the ruled line (upper ruled line LU70 in the illustratedexample). There can thus be added an inclination to thereby obtain asmooth outline. As a result, the outlines of the ruled line and theextension line can be smoothly connected together, thereby adjusting theexternally framed image in a good-looking manner.

In addition, the inside of the image adjustment region may be solidlyshaded from the state as shown in FIG. 12A. Then, instead of preparingthe logic product image E70F as described hereinabove (FIG. 14B) tothereby perform a logic product operation, there can be used thenon-equivalence image E71F as the outline adjustment image, as shown inFIG. 14C, which is of the same size and is black inside thereof. Anon-equivalence operation may be performed with the image in question.Furthermore, instead of the above-described logic product image E70F,there may be used a logic product image E72F which has a curved outlineto facilitate further smoothing.

The above described method referred to in FIGS. 14A-14D may stillfurther be advanced. Namely, in case the upper extension line F70U andthe lower extension line F70D are connected together at the basethereof, the upper extension line F70U and the lower extension line F70Dhave direct connecting points. As shown in FIGS. 15A-15D, there isobtained an outline which is formed by: a first ruled-line-part sidehaving a length of n [dot] which is formed by connecting a point on anupper edge of the upper ruled line LU70 (a point on the upper side atthe connecting point in the illustrated example) and a point on a loweredge of the lower ruled line LD70 (a point on the lower side at theconnecting point in the illustrated example); and a first outline as asingle closed line which is formed by the upper extension line and thelower extension line up to the connecting point. The inside of theoutside shape is solidly shaded in black (effective pixels), therebymaking it as an image adjustment region.

In this manner, as shown in FIG. 15A, there will be no problem in linewidth of the upper extension line F70U or the lower extension line F70Dof the decorative-figure image after enlargement. In this case, as theoutline adjustment image, there can be prepared a blank logical productimage E74F which has a second ruled-line-part side of a size smaller onboth ends than the above-described first ruled-line-part side,respectively, by the line width (predetermined width) m [dot]. Theremaining portion of the image E74F is formed of a single closed curveas a second outline which is smaller by the line width m [dot] than theoutside shape along the first outline, and the entire image E74Finclusive of the second outline is filled in white. As the outlineadjustment image, there can be prepared a non-equivalence image E75Fwhich is filled in black (effective pixels) within the outside shapealong the second outline.

In these cases, the second ruled-line-part side of a length (n−2m) [dot]is made to coincide with the first ruled-line-part side (in the centerin this case). The remaining portion is made to deviate by the linewidth m [dot] along the first outline. Then, logical product operationis performed between the corresponding pixels in case of the logicalproduct image E74F, and non-equivalence operation is performed betweenthe corresponding pixels in case of the non-equivalence image E75F. As aresult, there will remain only the size difference between the size ofthe image adjustment region and the size of the outline adjustment image(logical product image E74F or non-equivalence image E75F).

Namely, in these cases, the method of forming is the same as the one asdescribed in the first embodiment (see FIGS. 5A-5D through FIGS. 8A-8C).As shown in FIG. 15D, only the amount equivalent to the line width(predetermined line width) m [dot] along the first outline and isconnected to the upper ruled line LU70 or the lower ruled line LD70 ofthe line size m [dot]. Therefore, the outline of the ruled line and theextension line can be smoothly connected together in a good-lookingmanner.

Further, in the above case, if the shape (curve) of the outline of theoutline adjustment image is adequately modified, the line width of theabove-described upper extension line F75U or the lower extension lineF75D need not be unified. Instead, only the front end is made to have aline width m [dot] so that it can remain as the extension line similarto the upper extension line F70U or the lower extension line F75D of theoriginal decorative-figure image F70.

In addition, the above-described method can be further simplified asshown in FIG. 16A. Namely, the shape of the image adjustment region ismade simpler. A region which is completely capable of adjustment bylogical product operation with the above-described logical product imageE70F (adjustable like in FIG. 12C) is assumed, and the inside of theoutside shape may be entirely filled in black (effective pixels),thereby making an image adjustment region. In this case, instead of thelogical product operation with the logical product image E70F,non-equivalence operation can also be performed with the non-equivalenceimage E73F, whereby a similar result (see FIG. 16D, same as in FIG. 12C)can be obtained.

In order to further simplify the procedure, as shown in FIGS. 17A-17D,the following method may also be employed. Namely, the image adjustmentregion is supposed to be in the same state as in FIG. 15A (see FIG.17A). Ignoring the fact that black partly remains (see image F76 in FIG.16D), logical product operation with the above-described logical productimage E70F or non-equivalence operation with the non-equivalence imageE73F can be performed.

As explained hereinabove, according to the tape printing apparatus 1 ofthis invention, once the externally framed image is formed. With thisimage in question serving as an externally framed image beforeadjustment, at least one of the connecting points between the extensionlines of the front and rear decorative-figure images and the ruled linesis made to be a connecting point for adjustment. In a state in which theline width of at least the central portion of the ruled line ismaintained, outline adjustment to smooth the outline of the connectingpoint which is the object of adjustment is performed. The outline ofthis connecting point can thus be made smooth. In other words, when thefront and rear decorative-figure images are disposed, they may bedisposed at an arbitrary height irrespective of the line width. When theruled lines are disposed, the smoothness at the connecting points may bedisregarded to some extent and dispose them in a manner, e.g., only theouter-edge side (outside of the external frame) is made to coincide with(or made to be flush with) each other. The externally framed image isthus once formed and, thereafter, the smoothness at the connecting pointcan be adjusted. As a result, the externally framed image of anarbitrary height and arbitrary line width can be formed in agood-looking manner.

In particular, among the externally framed image, the image regioninclusive of the connecting point to be adjusted is made to be the imageadjustment region. That outline adjustment image for outline adjustmentwhich can be disposed in the image adjustment region is stored, andlogic operation corresponding to the pixels utilizing the outlineadjustment image is performed on the externally framed image beforeadjustment in the image adjustment region. Therefore, shapes of theconnecting points to be adjusted, i.e., various kinds of shapes that canoccur as a mode which does not accompany smoothness are assumed, andimages of shapes that can adjust them are prepared (stored) as theoutline adjustment images. Then, by performing adequate logicaloperation using them, the outline which is the object for adjustment canbe smoothly adjusted.

The front or rear decorative-figure image (F70, or the like) shallpreferably be prepared in the form of outline font data in the followingmanner. Namely, as shown in FIGS. 18A-18B, each of the above-describedoutline adjustment images E70T, E70F-E75F is also prepared as B70, W70,B71, W72, B73, W74, B75, where the one having effective pixels in blackinside has numbering preceded by “B” and the one having invalid pixelsin white inside has numbering preceded by “W.” In this arrangement, theoutline adjustment image can be used to advantage by enlarging to suitthe enlargement ratio of the front or rear decorative-figure image.

Further, the apparatus for preparing a parenthesized image and theapparatus for preparing externally framed image as well as variousmethods thereby (method of forming parenthesized image and method offorming externally framed image) employed in the above-described firstand second embodiments of the tape printing apparatus 1 of thisinvention are applicable not only to the tape printing apparatus 1 butalso to a program which is to be processed by various programmableapparatuses. In addition, they are also applicable to memory media suchas CD, MD, DVD, or the like, for storing therein that kind of program.By storing such a program therein or reading it therefrom to put intorunning, the parenthesized image of arbitrary height and arbitrary linewidth can be easily formed based on outline font in a good-lookingmanner. Or else, the connecting point between the extension lines of thefront and rear decorative-figure images and the ruled lines can besmoothed to thereby form the externally framed image of an arbitraryheight and arbitrary line width in a good-looking manner.

It is further understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoingis the preferred embodiment of the invention, and that various changesand modifications may be made without departing from the spirit andscope thereof.

1. An apparatus for forming a parenthesized image in which aparenthesized image constituting one of a front and rear pair of imagesof an arbitrary height and arbitrary line width is formed based onoutline font, said apparatus comprising: means for storing outline fontdata as original outside shape data, said original outside shape havinga single closed curve made up of a parenthesized outside shape portionof the parenthesized image and a connecting line portion to connect bothopen ends thereof; means for determining the height and line width ofthe parenthesized image; means for forming, based on the outside shapedata, a first-size solidly shaded image which has the determined heightand is entirely filled inside the original outside shape thereof witheffective pixels of logic “1”; means for forming, based on the outsideshape data, a second-size solidly shaded image of a second size which issmaller by the line width than the first-size solidly shaded image,along the parenthesized outside shape portion; and means for performingnon-equivalence operation with corresponding pixels by displacing thefirst-size solidly shaded image and the second-size solidly shaded imageby the line width along the parenthesized outside shape portion.
 2. Theapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the outside shape original datahas information that the original outside shape is entirely filledinside thereof with the effective pixels.
 3. A computer-executed methodof forming a parenthesized image in which a parenthesized imageconstituting one of a front and rear pair of images of an arbitraryheight and arbitrary line width is formed based on outline font, saidmethod comprising: storing data, by a means for storing outline fontdata, as original outside shape data, of outline font data having asingle closed curve made up of a parenthesized outside shape portion ofthe parenthesized image and a connecting line portion to connect bothopen ends thereof; determining, by a means for determining the heightand line width, the height and line width of the parenthesized image;forming, by a means for forming a first-size solidly shaped image, basedon the outside shape data, a first-size solidly shaded image which hasthe determined height and is entirely filled inside the original outsideshape thereof with effective pixels of logic “1”; forming, by a meansfor forming, a second-size solidly shaped image, based on the outsideshape data, a second-size solidly shaded image of a second size which issmaller by the line width than the first-size solidly shaded image,along the parenthesized outside shape portion; and performing, by ameans for performing non-equivalence operation with correspondingpixels, non-equivalence operation with corresponding pixels bydisplacing the first-size solidly shaded image and the second-sizesolidly shaded image by the line width along the parenthesized outsideshape portion.
 4. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing aprogram thereon capable of functioning each means of the apparatus forforming parenthesized image according to claim 1 or capable ofperforming the method of forming parenthesized image according to claim3.
 5. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing the programaccording to claim 4 in a manner to be readable by a programmableapparatus.